• Fever over 100 degree Farenheit
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Chills
• Fatigue

In some cases, individuals may also experience vomiting and/or diarrhea.

General Prevention Techniques for Parents and Guardians  

The Twin Valley School District in cooperation with the PA Department of Health recommends that all individuals practice the following general prevention techniques:

• Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue whenever possible and dispose of used tissues; or cough into your arm rather than your hand.
• Practice frequent hand washing - washing hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds; or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Staff should regularly clean and disinfect their work areas.
• Separate ill students and staff.
• Encourage students and staff to seek early treatment.
• Parents and guardians should communicate with your child's building by letting personnel know that your child is sick.
• Selective school dismissal may be considered - the district will continue to monitor absenteeism.
• If you are not able to stay home with your child, plan ahead for how he or she will be taken care of when sick at home or if school is closed.

Vaccination Information                                                           

According to the CDC, five (5) groups of people are considered most vulnerable to complications from H1N1 virus and should consider getting the vaccination for H1N1 flu when it become available. The following groups have been indentified as priority groups for receiving vaccinations:

1. Pregnant women
2. Persons six (6) months to 24 year old
3. Healthcare providers and EMS personnel
4. Parents, household members, or caregivers of children under 6 months old
5. Those under the age of 65 with certain underlying medical conditions

 Tips for Parents on Talking to Children about H1N1             

Concern over H1N1 can make children and parents anxious as there is uncertaintly about how far and quickly the virus will spread during the fall and winter flu season. Children look to their parents for guidance on how to react to stressful events. If parents seem overly worried, children may panic. Parents should reassure their children that health and school officials are working hard to ensure that people throughout the country stay healthy. Teaching children positive, preventitive measures, talking with them about their fears, and giving them a sense of some control over their risk of infection can help to reduce anxiety.

• Remain calm and reassuring - your children will react to and follow your verbal and nonverbal reaction. Remind them that you and the adults at their school are there to keep them safe and healthy.
• Make yourself available - your children may need extra attention from you and may want to talk abou their concerns and questions.
• Know the symptoms of H1N1 and how it spreads - symptoms include fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, fatigue, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Review basic hygiene practices - encourage children to practice everyday good hygiene by washing their hands, covering their mouths with a tissue when they sneeze or cough, and by not sharing food or drinks.
• Be honest and accurate - in the absence of factual information, children often imagine situations far worse than reality.
• Monitor television viewing - constantly watching updates on the status of the flu virus can increase anxiety.
• Maintain a normal routine - keeping to a regular schedule can be reassuring and promotes physical health. Ensure that children get plenty of sleep, regular meals, and exercise.
• Communicate with your school - let your school know if your child is sick and keep them at home. Talk to your school nurse or counselor if your child is having difficulties as a result of anxiety or stree-related to the flu.